Limping Marathon Runner

Suppose to have a game of badminton today. However, I think the E-booking system over the net has screwed up. A double booking. People pissed. I wasn't even mad yet. There is just one "senior badminton wannabe" who was kicking up a big fuss. I offered to take one court and let them have the other one. He simply didn't buy my idea. He was raising his voice over this matter to the facilities' staff. What the heck!!! It wasn't even this gentleman's fault. It was a bloody programming glitch. Mince the programmer instead!! Grumpy old man. Fortunately, his pals were much more understanding than this "I want to speak to your management" badminton wannabe. I left the place, informing the rest of the friendly elderly that I have asked my buddies not to come. But, I guess what is most important is that why kick up a big fuss over someone who offers help to resolve problems? Silly old man.

It started with Mr. Sun smiling brightly over every block around my estate. Just short, in the afternoon, it rained. Wet and wild days are here to stay. So wet that I doubt I can hardly arrange any tennis sessions. Wild.... ?... X'mas is here soon, following by New Year 2005, that can be wild.

Another year has passed by. Its either you love it or hate it. Ah Beng (my friend, a.k.a. Bird Bird Tan) asked me:

Beng: "These few years, time really flies faster, hor."
Sotong (that's me): "Time is constant. 10, 20 years before. Time still tick at a constant rate. If you say it flies faster, its because you feel you're getting old and not achieving more. Summary .. tired is the word."

Beng: "Another 10 years from now, we will face possible retrenchment. We'll either be beggars or beg for jobs."
Sotong: "Hey, either way, it works."

That's why I think the government is educating the society to do financial planning on your own, or engage financial consultants. You see people stretch their dollars, paying everything by installments (barely leaving any for savings). Living a high profile lifestyle. Choose your option:

Package A:
Now - Drive fancy cars, staying 5* local accomodation, clubbing at every hotspot in town, strives to be seen.
30 years from now - You'll still be seen, on the streets. That is if you screw up your job, can't pay your loans. Compounding interest on your loans and savings enough to buy you a bun a day is on the way.

Package B:
Now - Buy what you can pay now, travel on public transport (still, you can be seen).
30 years from now - Eat what ever you feel like, still being able to pay for any bills (medical bills might be one's greatest concern by then), have a roof over you head during rainy days.

Anyway, I hope I can still jog tonight. I need to carry on limping.